Expansion of the Learn More Breathe Better program and Breathe Better Network

As you know, the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) manages a broad research portfolio covering the causes, prevention, and treatment of conditions that have a major impact on American lives, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a leading cause of death in the United States. As part of our mission to improve the health of the public, we develop evidence-based communications programs, engage with stakeholders, and translate and communicate the NHLBI research and initiatives of the Division of Lung Diseases (DLD).

Now, after more than a decade in the field, NHLBI is mapping a new path forward for the Learn More Breathe Better program. We want to leverage the success of this program—the first of its kind federal program focused on COPD—to build awareness and address concerns of those with other lung diseases and conditions. To this end, we will include more lung health education offerings, and expand the Breathe Better Network to include stakeholders interested in general respiratory health as well as an array of diverse lung diseases and conditions.

To our COPD resources, we will be adding key asthma content, educational resources, and information for providers and people living with asthma, as well as other lung disease information. We also will be disseminating an important update of the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program Coordinating Committee (NAEPPCC) Expert Panel 4 (EPR-4) Working Group, which will be releasing recommendations for new asthma guidelines next year.

Of course, NHLBI will continue its strong support for its current lung health-related priorities—engaging with our partners, developing science-based educational resources, tracking the implementation of the COPD National Action Plan, and funding lung health research and education.

The exciting expansion we’re beginning is only possible because of all of you—the dedicated advocates, organizations, health and community professionals, patients, and researchers who’ve been working tirelessly across our local and national lung health communities.

Thank you for continuing to champion Learn More Breathe Better. We look forward to many more years of collaboration—not only to advance our understanding of lung diseases, but also to improve the lives of the millions of Americans living with lung disease and those who care for them.

Sincerely,

James P. Kiley, PhD Director, Division of Lung Diseases National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Lenora Johnson, DrPH, MPH Director, Office of Science Policy, Engagement,

Education and Communications National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute